Reflecting on 2025 Aviation Highlights: Restorations, Airshows, and WWII Formations That Captivated

In 2025, Wingspan Adventures celebrated aviation through captivating restorations, thrilling airshows, and awe-inspiring WWII aircraft formations. From the epic relocation of a C-47 Skytrain to the unforgettable Oshkosh EAA Air Venture experience, enthusiasts witnessed historic warbirds like the B-29 Doc and Fifi, and marveled at unique events including the Show Me State Air Show and Turkey Mountain fly-ins. This year honored aviation's legacy and set the stage for more adventures ahead.

Wingspan Adventures and Flight Year in Review 2025

As 2025 came to a close, Wingspan Adventures celebrated a remarkable milestone—surpassing 2 million views. This achievement reflects the passion of aviation enthusiasts who cherish real airplanes, authentic stories, and the craftsmanship that built aviation's legacy. The year was filled with unforgettable moments that brought history to life and connected viewers with the spirit of flight.

The Road to Restoration: The C-47 Skytrain's Epic Journey

One of the standout moments of 2025 was the long-form video "Road to Restoration," documenting the incredible move of a C-47 Skytrain from the fields of Rantoul, Kansas, to the municipal airport in Ottawa, Kansas. Now owned by Reader Aviation, this historic aircraft is slated for restoration. The video captured every step of the relocation process and resonated deeply with viewers, earning an outpouring of positive comments.

This C-47 shares a unique connection with another WWII legend, the A26 Invader "Lady Liberty," both rescued from the same boneyard in Rantoul. Their journeys symbolize the dedication to preserving aviation history and returning these magnificent planes to the skies.

Up Close with WWII Legends at Hutchinson Municipal Airport

In May, Wingspan Adventures had the privilege of filming from the roof of the terminal building at Hutchinson Municipal Airport in Kansas. This vantage point offered an intimate look at several WWII aircraft, including the A26 Invader "Lady Liberty" and the B25 Mitchell "Super Rabbit." The B25 is famously linked to Jimmy Doolittle's daring mission that avenged the Pearl Harbor attacks.

The Hutchinson Airport Fly-In provided enthusiasts a rare opportunity to experience these historic warbirds up close, celebrating their stories and the bravery of those who flew them.

The Oshkosh EAA Air Venture: A Dream Realized

Perhaps the most memorable adventure of 2025 was the first flight to Appleton, Wisconsin, to attend the Oshkosh EAA Air Venture—the world's largest aviation event. Flying in a Beechcraft Bonanza alongside friends, the experience was nothing short of extraordinary.

The event showcased an overwhelming variety of aircraft, making it impossible to see everything. However, the highlight was undoubtedly the massive formations of WWII planes soaring overhead. The thunderous sound of these warbirds in flight created an unforgettable atmosphere.

The journey home was equally dramatic, navigating between two thunderstorms before being rewarded with a breathtaking sunset. This trip fulfilled a long-held dream and deepened the appreciation for aviation's rich heritage.

Monthly Fly-Ins and Warbird Encounters

Throughout 2025, Wingspan Adventures also explored smaller but equally captivating events. The Turkey Mountain Airport fly-in in Shell Knob, Missouri, offered a charming grass-strip setting for aviation enthusiasts to gather monthly.

The year was also marked by encounters with two of the only operating B-29 Superfortresses in the world: "Doc" and "Fifi." Witnessing these giants start up and roar to life was a powerful reminder of the engineering marvels and historical significance these aircraft represent.

Airshows and Unique Attractions

Wingspan Adventures attended several airshows in 2025, including the Show Me State Air Show in Jefferson City, Missouri. Attendees enjoyed a diverse lineup featuring acrobatic biplanes, formations of Stearmen, and a Navion.

A standout attraction was a giant scale RC SR-71 Blackbird equipped with real turbine jets. The impressive speed and sound of this model captivated the crowd, showcasing the blend of aviation passion and technological innovation.

Looking Ahead to 2026

The first full year of Wingspan Adventures in Flight was a celebration of aviation history, community, and the enduring allure of flight. From restorations and fly-ins to grand airshows and historic formations, 2025 honored the legacy of aviation and set the stage for even more exciting adventures.

As the channel looks forward to 2026, viewers can anticipate more captivating stories, rare aircraft, and immersive experiences that keep the spirit of aviation alive.

Thank you for being part of this journey and for keeping the stories of real airplanes and their incredible histories alive.